A weakened but unusual Typhoon Krathon struck southwestern Taiwan on Thursday, leaving two dead and forcing the island to shut down for a second consecutive day. Hundreds of flights were grounded, and financial markets remained closed.
Krathon, downgraded to a Category 1 storm, made landfall around midday in Kaohsiung, a major port city. Despite its reduced intensity, authorities urged residents to remain indoors due to heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous storm surges coinciding with high tide.
As early as dawn, Kaohsiung’s 2.7 million residents were alerted via text messages to seek shelter from gusts exceeding 160 kph (100 mph). The port of Kaohsiung recorded even stronger gusts, surpassing 220 kph.
Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai expressed concern over people still venturing out despite the harsh conditions. “Surveillance footage shows many are riding scooters in these dangerous winds and rain, which is extremely risky,” he said.